1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:02,667 (intense music) 2 00:00:06,243 --> 00:00:07,270 A revolution is taking place 3 00:00:07,270 --> 00:00:09,623 at the forefront of genetic research. 4 00:00:12,254 --> 00:00:14,400 Extraordinary techniques are now available, 5 00:00:14,400 --> 00:00:17,620 where faces can be reconstructed from DNA 6 00:00:17,620 --> 00:00:20,123 even from a drop of saliva. 7 00:00:21,109 --> 00:00:24,310 (vibrant music) 8 00:00:24,310 --> 00:00:27,960 Used by law enforcement in crime scene investigations, 9 00:00:27,960 --> 00:00:31,298 they can now create portraits of suspects-- 10 00:00:31,298 --> 00:00:32,730 My point is-- 11 00:00:32,730 --> 00:00:33,563 Like these. 12 00:00:37,735 --> 00:00:38,900 This technique has been used to solve 13 00:00:38,900 --> 00:00:41,170 a number of cold cases already, 14 00:00:41,170 --> 00:00:44,163 and has led to arrests and convictions. 15 00:00:46,378 --> 00:00:47,610 This isn't science-fiction. 16 00:00:47,610 --> 00:00:49,633 This is our new reality. 17 00:00:53,520 --> 00:00:56,963 The decoding of our genome has entered a new era. 18 00:00:59,082 --> 00:01:00,640 Until recently, most genetic analysis 19 00:01:00,640 --> 00:01:03,123 only looked at a very small part of our genome, 20 00:01:04,030 --> 00:01:05,023 just two percent. 21 00:01:09,824 --> 00:01:11,521 (industrial clanking) 22 00:01:11,521 --> 00:01:15,233 And the remaining 98% was referred to as junk DNA. 23 00:01:17,010 --> 00:01:19,620 But now, advances in technology 24 00:01:19,620 --> 00:01:21,730 have led to remarkable discoveries 25 00:01:21,730 --> 00:01:24,233 in these mysterious regions of our genome, 26 00:01:25,312 --> 00:01:26,462 originally called junk. 27 00:01:28,210 --> 00:01:30,850 It's not garbage, in fact, it's treasure. 28 00:01:30,850 --> 00:01:34,270 And there are things that are coming out 29 00:01:34,270 --> 00:01:38,445 of all those parts that we didn't pay attention for. 30 00:01:38,445 --> 00:01:39,620 (rustling) 31 00:01:39,620 --> 00:01:43,733 Coffee, enjoyed by so many around the world. 32 00:01:46,808 --> 00:01:49,608 Whether coffee can be beneficial for your health or not, 33 00:01:51,470 --> 00:01:53,563 might also be determined by our genome. 34 00:01:57,410 --> 00:02:00,040 So coffee could increase or decrease 35 00:02:00,040 --> 00:02:01,780 your risk of getting heart disease 36 00:02:03,290 --> 00:02:05,233 depending on your genetic profile. 37 00:02:08,870 --> 00:02:09,720 But there's more. 38 00:02:11,295 --> 00:02:13,462 (gulping) 39 00:02:14,396 --> 00:02:17,050 Our genome could also hold keys to longevity, 40 00:02:17,050 --> 00:02:20,383 even if you're a lifelong drinker or smoker. 41 00:02:23,694 --> 00:02:26,570 It's becoming clearer that the secret to long life 42 00:02:26,570 --> 00:02:29,883 may be special DNA that protects us from disease. 43 00:02:31,570 --> 00:02:34,970 So experts are now starting to unearth DNA 44 00:02:34,970 --> 00:02:37,923 that protects against cancer and dementia. 45 00:02:41,808 --> 00:02:43,120 For this documentary, we're teaming up 46 00:02:43,120 --> 00:02:45,990 with leading scientists from around the world 47 00:02:45,990 --> 00:02:49,113 to capture DNA as never seen before. 48 00:02:51,270 --> 00:02:53,500 We've uncovered the remarkable workings 49 00:02:53,500 --> 00:02:55,680 of the mysterious regions of our genome 50 00:02:56,883 --> 00:02:58,833 that's been kept under wraps until now. 51 00:03:00,375 --> 00:03:03,208 (liquid sloshing) 52 00:03:05,139 --> 00:03:07,260 So join us on this treasure hunt, 53 00:03:07,260 --> 00:03:09,953 as we delve into our body's genome. 54 00:03:23,570 --> 00:03:25,580 Rapid advances in DNA analysis 55 00:03:25,580 --> 00:03:28,203 have given us an extraordinary new weapon. 56 00:03:29,075 --> 00:03:31,825 (sirens wailing) 57 00:03:33,572 --> 00:03:35,050 It's being used in police investigations, 58 00:03:35,050 --> 00:03:37,253 which have produced remarkable results, 59 00:03:38,870 --> 00:03:43,113 and this technology is called forensic DNA profiling. 60 00:03:46,346 --> 00:03:48,870 From DNA evidence collected at crime scenes 61 00:03:48,870 --> 00:03:52,010 such as cigarette butts and strands of hair, 62 00:03:52,010 --> 00:03:55,180 tiny amounts of genetic material can be analyzed 63 00:03:56,073 --> 00:03:58,173 and used to predict the suspect's face. 64 00:04:02,227 --> 00:04:04,390 In Louisiana, it was used to solve a crime 65 00:04:04,390 --> 00:04:06,783 when all leads had been exhausted. 66 00:04:09,793 --> 00:04:11,771 (footsteps crunching) 67 00:04:11,771 --> 00:04:14,680 A homicide took place here in 2009. 68 00:04:14,680 --> 00:04:16,793 This is where we found her body, 69 00:04:16,793 --> 00:04:17,993 right here in this area. 70 00:04:20,295 --> 00:04:21,610 No evidence found at the scene, 71 00:04:21,610 --> 00:04:24,800 except for a fragment of skin from the suspect 72 00:04:24,800 --> 00:04:26,803 recovered from the victim's nails. 73 00:04:28,810 --> 00:04:30,113 DNA was extracted from it. 74 00:04:31,617 --> 00:04:34,117 (eerie music) 75 00:04:35,202 --> 00:04:36,850 But there were no matches with previous offenders 76 00:04:36,850 --> 00:04:38,053 on the databases, 77 00:04:39,170 --> 00:04:41,763 and the case went cold for a number of years. 78 00:04:43,528 --> 00:04:45,778 (slamming) 79 00:04:46,704 --> 00:04:48,292 Six years later, 80 00:04:48,292 --> 00:04:50,892 an astonishing piece of technology became available, 81 00:04:52,022 --> 00:04:55,133 a way to predict facials features just from DNA. 82 00:04:58,640 --> 00:05:00,830 One could have blue eyes. 83 00:05:00,830 --> 00:05:01,700 My point is-- 84 00:05:01,700 --> 00:05:03,770 Once this image was released, 85 00:05:03,770 --> 00:05:06,120 people came forward with new information 86 00:05:06,120 --> 00:05:07,840 on potential suspects, 87 00:05:07,840 --> 00:05:10,853 and eventually the perpetrator was caught. 88 00:05:12,450 --> 00:05:14,410 I mean we feel strongly that 89 00:05:14,410 --> 00:05:16,965 had it not been for this technology, 90 00:05:16,965 --> 00:05:19,523 we may still be looking for a killer right now. 91 00:05:20,708 --> 00:05:23,991 (intense music) 92 00:05:23,991 --> 00:05:25,888 To date, this technology 93 00:05:25,888 --> 00:05:28,553 has already helped to solve over 20 cases in the US. 94 00:05:31,200 --> 00:05:34,130 This is no stuff of science fiction. 95 00:05:34,130 --> 00:05:36,703 But how are such things now possible? 96 00:05:42,650 --> 00:05:45,530 A global authority on DNA facial profiling, 97 00:05:45,530 --> 00:05:49,593 is based in Shanghai, at the Chinese Academy of Science. 98 00:05:51,916 --> 00:05:54,295 (rushing) 99 00:05:54,295 --> 00:05:55,645 This is professor Kun Tang. 100 00:05:57,200 --> 00:06:00,050 For this film, we've enlisted his help for an experiment. 101 00:06:01,196 --> 00:06:04,863 (speaking foreign language) 102 00:06:06,970 --> 00:06:09,970 For this exercise, we've asked a Japanese actor, 103 00:06:09,970 --> 00:06:12,133 Ryohei Suzuki to take part. 104 00:06:14,383 --> 00:06:15,880 We wanted to see whether his facial features 105 00:06:15,880 --> 00:06:19,283 could be retraced just from DNA in his saliva. 106 00:06:23,250 --> 00:06:27,550 Professor Tung and his team were only given a DNA sample 107 00:06:27,550 --> 00:06:30,683 with no further information on the actor's identity. 108 00:06:34,961 --> 00:06:36,160 Professor Tung made the discovery 109 00:06:36,160 --> 00:06:38,540 that the keys to our facial features 110 00:06:38,540 --> 00:06:42,253 were being held in the 98% part of our genome. 111 00:06:45,056 --> 00:06:47,186 (liquid sloshing) 112 00:06:47,186 --> 00:06:48,613 Take nose height, for example. 113 00:06:49,670 --> 00:06:53,540 If you change even one part of the 98%, 114 00:06:53,540 --> 00:06:55,633 it can change dramatically. 115 00:07:00,577 --> 00:07:02,430 Let's do the same with the jaw. 116 00:07:02,430 --> 00:07:05,423 It makes such a big difference to someone's features. 117 00:07:07,856 --> 00:07:09,990 (vibrant music) 118 00:07:09,990 --> 00:07:11,360 So how did the team get on 119 00:07:11,360 --> 00:07:15,783 with reconstructing Ryohei Suzuki's face from DNA alone? 120 00:07:16,710 --> 00:07:17,623 Take a look. 121 00:07:21,730 --> 00:07:25,030 Analyzing genomes to this extent has not been possible 122 00:07:25,030 --> 00:07:26,473 with the older techniques. 123 00:07:28,290 --> 00:07:29,693 So what does all this mean? 124 00:07:33,760 --> 00:07:38,063 Moreover, what's the difference between genes and DNA? 125 00:07:41,720 --> 00:07:45,840 Our bodies are made up of around 40 trillion cells, 126 00:07:45,840 --> 00:07:49,462 and DNA is contained in every single one. 127 00:07:49,462 --> 00:07:51,629 (chiming) 128 00:07:54,940 --> 00:07:56,960 This may look familiar to you, 129 00:07:56,960 --> 00:08:00,733 the unmistakable shape of DNA's double helix. 130 00:08:02,852 --> 00:08:05,019 (rushing) 131 00:08:08,120 --> 00:08:08,953 Our genes are, in fact, 132 00:08:08,953 --> 00:08:10,783 only a very small part of our genome. 133 00:08:12,856 --> 00:08:14,550 (ethereal chiming) 134 00:08:14,550 --> 00:08:16,210 Even when you add them all up, 135 00:08:16,210 --> 00:08:18,103 it only comes to about two percent. 136 00:08:22,127 --> 00:08:24,270 Genes are tasked with a crucial role; 137 00:08:24,270 --> 00:08:26,623 making different parts of our bodies. 138 00:08:29,469 --> 00:08:31,760 For example, they act like coinstruction manuals 139 00:08:31,760 --> 00:08:35,780 for various molecules to create organs in our body 140 00:08:35,780 --> 00:08:39,113 like the heart, stomach, gut, and so on. 141 00:08:40,336 --> 00:08:43,003 (vibrant music) 142 00:08:45,455 --> 00:08:47,810 As for the remaining 98% of our genome, 143 00:08:47,810 --> 00:08:49,343 those that are not genes, 144 00:08:50,221 --> 00:08:51,993 are called non-coding DNA. 145 00:08:53,565 --> 00:08:55,620 These don't contain instructions 146 00:08:55,620 --> 00:08:57,393 on how to create body parts. 147 00:08:59,032 --> 00:09:00,690 So in the past, it was assumed 148 00:09:00,690 --> 00:09:02,483 that they had no function at all. 149 00:09:06,039 --> 00:09:08,683 However due to dramatic advances in DNA sequencing, 150 00:09:10,110 --> 00:09:12,890 these regions that have been written off as junk 151 00:09:12,890 --> 00:09:14,263 can now be analyzed, 152 00:09:15,410 --> 00:09:18,940 and this, at last, has given us further insights, 153 00:09:18,940 --> 00:09:21,533 into the complex workings of the human body. 154 00:09:25,698 --> 00:09:29,365 (speaking foreign language) 155 00:09:42,181 --> 00:09:43,690 (intense music) 156 00:09:43,690 --> 00:09:45,230 According to research, 157 00:09:45,230 --> 00:09:48,510 there are over 10,000 sections of DNA 158 00:09:48,510 --> 00:09:50,823 that can relate to the shapes of our faces. 159 00:09:51,946 --> 00:09:55,111 (vibrant chiming) 160 00:09:55,111 --> 00:09:55,990 Decoding this information 161 00:09:55,990 --> 00:09:58,950 has now made it possible to reconstruct faces 162 00:09:58,950 --> 00:10:00,173 in such detail. 163 00:10:06,673 --> 00:10:09,860 Within the 98% of our genome that used to be called junk, 164 00:10:09,860 --> 00:10:12,530 it now appears that a vast amount of information 165 00:10:12,530 --> 00:10:13,563 is packed away, 166 00:10:14,896 --> 00:10:18,503 and it plays a key role in making each one of us unique. 167 00:10:23,740 --> 00:10:26,050 Biomedical scientists around the globe 168 00:10:26,050 --> 00:10:30,813 are making rapid progress to delve further into our 98%. 169 00:10:32,570 --> 00:10:34,500 And that's because vital information 170 00:10:34,500 --> 00:10:38,513 about our health, and longevity, may be buried within it. 171 00:10:43,518 --> 00:10:45,580 (glasses clinking) 172 00:10:45,580 --> 00:10:48,793 Studies have been looking into the genome of the elderly, 173 00:10:51,120 --> 00:10:53,400 especially those that are in good health 174 00:10:53,400 --> 00:10:55,333 and are over 100 years old. 175 00:10:58,990 --> 00:11:01,523 My name is Richard Arvin Overton. 176 00:11:03,180 --> 00:11:06,313 I am 109 years old. 177 00:11:08,458 --> 00:11:13,093 Still walk, I still talk, and I still drive. 178 00:11:14,081 --> 00:11:16,831 (engine running) 179 00:11:17,860 --> 00:11:19,890 Richard Overton has smoked 180 00:11:19,890 --> 00:11:22,033 since he was 20 years old, 181 00:11:23,315 --> 00:11:24,715 but is still in good health. 182 00:11:25,940 --> 00:11:28,824 (intense music) 183 00:11:28,824 --> 00:11:31,230 (wine pouring) 184 00:11:31,230 --> 00:11:36,230 Louise Levy is 108 years old, has never exercised, 185 00:11:36,460 --> 00:11:38,733 and is partial to her daily tipple. 186 00:11:43,360 --> 00:11:47,770 I have red wine every evening. 187 00:11:47,770 --> 00:11:51,094 I didn't do anything physical, really. 188 00:11:51,094 --> 00:11:53,511 (chattering) 189 00:11:54,496 --> 00:11:55,329 These habits in most people 190 00:11:55,329 --> 00:11:58,630 are considered harmful to health, however... 191 00:12:05,600 --> 00:12:08,633 They did what everybody did and they did it quite wrong. 192 00:12:10,230 --> 00:12:12,540 The secrets to their longevity 193 00:12:12,540 --> 00:12:15,743 may lie in the 98% part of our genome. 194 00:12:17,350 --> 00:12:20,083 They're very high naturally tRNA. 195 00:12:20,083 --> 00:12:24,020 That they have some mutations that cause them 196 00:12:24,020 --> 00:12:29,020 to age slower, and to be protected, therefore, 197 00:12:29,130 --> 00:12:33,735 from the effect of aging on age-related diseases. 198 00:12:33,735 --> 00:12:35,566 (woman speaking) 199 00:12:35,566 --> 00:12:38,886 In 2019 scientists published their findings 200 00:12:38,886 --> 00:12:42,193 on DNA variance, that can protect our lungs from tobacco. 201 00:12:43,042 --> 00:12:45,225 (foreboding music) 202 00:12:45,225 --> 00:12:46,480 Normally smoking increases our risk 203 00:12:46,480 --> 00:12:49,563 of dying from lung disease, by as much as three fold. 204 00:12:52,030 --> 00:12:55,130 However, these variants may be dampening down 205 00:12:55,130 --> 00:12:58,130 inflammation of the lungs from tobacco, 206 00:12:58,130 --> 00:13:00,660 and reducing the risk of getting lung disease 207 00:13:00,660 --> 00:13:03,254 by as much as 80%. 208 00:13:03,254 --> 00:13:06,601 (vibrant music) 209 00:13:06,601 --> 00:13:09,690 One after another, DNA that can protect us from disease 210 00:13:09,690 --> 00:13:11,253 is now being discovered. 211 00:13:12,320 --> 00:13:15,270 For example, DNA that can enhance our powers 212 00:13:15,270 --> 00:13:16,703 to ward off cancers, 213 00:13:18,290 --> 00:13:21,610 DNA that can suppress Alzheimer's disease, 214 00:13:21,610 --> 00:13:25,453 even DNA that's linked to the onset of allergies. 215 00:13:27,850 --> 00:13:30,320 Like DNA that holds the key to our longevity, 216 00:13:30,320 --> 00:13:33,210 these are all buried amongst the non-coding 217 00:13:33,210 --> 00:13:37,823 98% of our genome that used to be called junk. 218 00:13:42,520 --> 00:13:47,010 Many of those variants in the non-coding part of the DNA 219 00:13:47,010 --> 00:13:51,510 are very effective mimics for drugs that we might use 220 00:13:51,510 --> 00:13:53,050 to treat disease. 221 00:13:53,050 --> 00:13:56,800 So I think there's a whole field of biology now 222 00:13:56,800 --> 00:13:58,530 that looks at those area, 223 00:13:58,530 --> 00:14:01,740 and I think those areas will be promising, 224 00:14:01,740 --> 00:14:05,790 also, from what we find that can help us 225 00:14:05,790 --> 00:14:09,200 to target aging, to delay aging, prevent it, 226 00:14:09,200 --> 00:14:11,434 and maybe reverse it. 227 00:14:11,434 --> 00:14:14,870 (intense music) 228 00:14:14,870 --> 00:14:16,820 This region of our genome, 229 00:14:17,850 --> 00:14:20,930 how is it different from genes themselves, 230 00:14:20,930 --> 00:14:22,093 and what does it do? 231 00:14:23,618 --> 00:14:26,451 (digital rushing) 232 00:14:27,436 --> 00:14:28,850 Recent developments in research 233 00:14:28,850 --> 00:14:31,840 have revealed that the 98% works 234 00:14:31,840 --> 00:14:34,743 by acting like a controller of our genes. 235 00:14:38,360 --> 00:14:41,143 And what do we mean by controlling our genes? 236 00:14:42,000 --> 00:14:43,700 We'll be getting to that 237 00:14:43,700 --> 00:14:46,803 by showing you what the latest research has told us. 238 00:14:51,535 --> 00:14:54,216 (coffee beans scattering) 239 00:14:54,216 --> 00:14:57,623 And surprisingly, this involves coffee. 240 00:14:59,321 --> 00:15:00,680 (coffee dripping) 241 00:15:00,680 --> 00:15:03,403 Coffee is one of the world's favorite beverages. 242 00:15:04,800 --> 00:15:07,670 Globally, over 20 million cups of it 243 00:15:07,670 --> 00:15:09,393 are consumed every day. 244 00:15:10,709 --> 00:15:11,880 (traffic rushing by) 245 00:15:11,880 --> 00:15:13,880 Science is now revealing how coffee 246 00:15:13,880 --> 00:15:17,473 can bring about health benefits, but only for some. 247 00:15:19,444 --> 00:15:21,253 Well there've been many studies in the past 248 00:15:21,253 --> 00:15:23,180 that have looked at the health effects of coffee, 249 00:15:23,180 --> 00:15:26,020 and their findings have been really inconsistent. 250 00:15:26,020 --> 00:15:28,610 Some studies showing coffee increases 251 00:15:28,610 --> 00:15:30,680 your risk of certain diseases, 252 00:15:30,680 --> 00:15:32,100 others showing no effect, 253 00:15:32,100 --> 00:15:34,693 yet others showing coffee might actually be protective. 254 00:15:35,674 --> 00:15:37,800 (liquid sloshing) 255 00:15:37,800 --> 00:15:40,630 Antioxidants found in drinks like coffee 256 00:15:40,630 --> 00:15:41,653 can be good for you. 257 00:15:42,789 --> 00:15:43,680 (relaxing music) 258 00:15:43,680 --> 00:15:46,850 For example, by rejuvenating our blood vessels, 259 00:15:46,850 --> 00:15:48,833 and improving the health of the heart. 260 00:15:52,670 --> 00:15:53,770 But on the other hand, 261 00:15:56,600 --> 00:15:59,560 caffeine in coffee can shrink blood vessels 262 00:15:59,560 --> 00:16:01,043 and raise blood pressure, 263 00:16:02,666 --> 00:16:04,866 which in turn can put a strain on the heart. 264 00:16:07,051 --> 00:16:08,410 So it looks like people who are able to reap 265 00:16:08,410 --> 00:16:10,800 the benefits of drinking coffee, 266 00:16:10,800 --> 00:16:14,023 are able to write off these negative effects of caffeine. 267 00:16:15,050 --> 00:16:16,263 How do they do this? 268 00:16:21,310 --> 00:16:23,440 Professor Ahmed El-Sohemy 269 00:16:23,440 --> 00:16:26,930 has analyzed the DNA of 4,000 people, 270 00:16:26,930 --> 00:16:30,820 and he's discovered that the 98% part of our genome 271 00:16:30,820 --> 00:16:31,893 holds the key. 272 00:16:34,367 --> 00:16:37,174 (mystical music) 273 00:16:37,174 --> 00:16:39,660 There is a piece of DNA that determines our ability 274 00:16:39,660 --> 00:16:41,073 to break down caffeine. 275 00:16:43,037 --> 00:16:46,520 He found that 46% of people in his group 276 00:16:46,520 --> 00:16:49,003 were able to rapidly break down caffeine, 277 00:16:53,000 --> 00:16:55,000 and so they're able to fully enjoy 278 00:16:55,000 --> 00:16:57,563 the beneficial aspects of antioxidants. 279 00:17:07,632 --> 00:17:10,480 Thanks to their DNA, their risk of heart attack 280 00:17:10,480 --> 00:17:13,380 can be vastly reduced just by drinking 281 00:17:13,380 --> 00:17:15,363 one cup of coffee a day. 282 00:17:18,070 --> 00:17:20,880 And if they drank over two cups, 283 00:17:20,880 --> 00:17:22,913 this can even decrease to a third. 284 00:17:26,490 --> 00:17:29,630 In the remaining 54% are people who were 285 00:17:29,630 --> 00:17:31,780 slow to break down caffeine, 286 00:17:31,780 --> 00:17:34,020 and those who are considered neutral, 287 00:17:34,020 --> 00:17:35,693 neither fast nor slow. 288 00:17:36,531 --> 00:17:38,580 (puttering) 289 00:17:38,580 --> 00:17:42,500 For those who are only able to slowly break down caffeine, 290 00:17:42,500 --> 00:17:44,823 coffee can put a strain on their heart. 291 00:17:47,320 --> 00:17:50,910 So depending on which version of this genetic variant 292 00:17:50,910 --> 00:17:54,940 a person has, which is found in the 98% of the genome 293 00:17:54,940 --> 00:17:57,370 that does not code for a protein, 294 00:17:57,370 --> 00:17:59,330 this ultimately determines whether or not 295 00:17:59,330 --> 00:18:01,790 coffee is good for them or bad for them. 296 00:18:01,790 --> 00:18:04,430 So when we looked at the DNA of these participants, 297 00:18:04,430 --> 00:18:08,253 we were pleasantly surprised at just how big the effect was. 298 00:18:10,000 --> 00:18:11,500 So lets see how our genes 299 00:18:11,500 --> 00:18:14,030 are actually being controlled by DNA 300 00:18:14,030 --> 00:18:16,563 found in the 98% of our genome. 301 00:18:19,310 --> 00:18:22,790 Molecules which are responsible for breaking down caffeine, 302 00:18:22,790 --> 00:18:23,833 are crucial here. 303 00:18:28,163 --> 00:18:29,427 (liquid droplets echoing) 304 00:18:29,427 --> 00:18:30,820 And instructions for making them 305 00:18:32,894 --> 00:18:34,040 can be found in the two percent part 306 00:18:34,040 --> 00:18:36,023 of our genome, our genes, 307 00:18:39,599 --> 00:18:40,780 and the molecules needed are made 308 00:18:40,780 --> 00:18:43,160 by scanning through the instruction manual 309 00:18:43,160 --> 00:18:44,833 contained inside the gene. 310 00:18:46,605 --> 00:18:48,943 Each and every one of us has this gene. 311 00:18:53,034 --> 00:18:56,830 But, in people who are able to break down caffeine rapidly, 312 00:18:56,830 --> 00:19:00,130 the non-coding 98% part of their genome 313 00:19:00,130 --> 00:19:02,680 contains a DNA variant, 314 00:19:02,680 --> 00:19:04,590 which makes their bodies able to make 315 00:19:04,590 --> 00:19:08,093 plenty of those molecules to dismantle caffeine. 316 00:19:09,870 --> 00:19:14,360 People with DNA variants that break down caffeine slowly 317 00:19:14,360 --> 00:19:17,053 are unable to produce enough of those molecules. 318 00:19:18,791 --> 00:19:19,900 (vibrant digital music) 319 00:19:19,900 --> 00:19:24,180 We'll now explain what DNA in the 98% is up to 320 00:19:24,180 --> 00:19:25,923 inside the body's cells. 321 00:19:30,040 --> 00:19:31,700 Let's see how it's able to manage 322 00:19:31,700 --> 00:19:34,173 such incredibly complex functions, 323 00:19:35,860 --> 00:19:38,890 like scanning through instruction manuals, 324 00:19:38,890 --> 00:19:42,323 even controlling the number of times they should be read. 325 00:19:48,411 --> 00:19:50,940 For this program, we've collaborated with leading scientists 326 00:19:50,940 --> 00:19:52,550 from around the globe, 327 00:19:52,550 --> 00:19:56,173 to visually demonstrate the workings of our DNA. 328 00:19:57,392 --> 00:19:59,090 (chattering) 329 00:19:59,090 --> 00:20:02,630 First, let's take a look at some advanced microscopy 330 00:20:02,630 --> 00:20:04,783 and see how they've captured DNA. 331 00:20:10,200 --> 00:20:12,920 We are looking inside a cell, 332 00:20:12,920 --> 00:20:15,983 as seen by the very latest electron microscope. 333 00:20:17,728 --> 00:20:20,423 DNA is packed inside the spherical nucleus. 334 00:20:23,530 --> 00:20:26,640 This is what DNA actually looks like, 335 00:20:26,640 --> 00:20:29,453 captured clearly for the first time ever. 336 00:20:30,820 --> 00:20:33,603 And now we're inside the nucleus of the cell, 337 00:20:34,520 --> 00:20:37,703 which is smaller than a fifth of the finest grain of sand. 338 00:20:39,200 --> 00:20:41,983 What does the world of DNA look like in here? 339 00:20:44,140 --> 00:20:46,550 In addition, we've collected the first ever 340 00:20:46,550 --> 00:20:50,163 3D images of DNA in living cells, 341 00:20:51,590 --> 00:20:55,307 and simulations of DNA's movements in the nucleus. 342 00:20:55,307 --> 00:20:58,104 (peaceful music) 343 00:20:58,104 --> 00:21:00,516 Based on the latest scientific findings, 344 00:21:00,516 --> 00:21:02,530 we have recreated the world of our genome 345 00:21:02,530 --> 00:21:04,563 in state-of-the-art CGI. 346 00:21:10,328 --> 00:21:12,340 Using coffee as an example, 347 00:21:12,340 --> 00:21:15,220 let's go on the journey to witness the dramas 348 00:21:15,220 --> 00:21:16,433 about to unfold. 349 00:21:20,150 --> 00:21:23,710 The liver, the organ that breaks down caffeine, 350 00:21:23,710 --> 00:21:25,043 takes center stage. 351 00:21:26,347 --> 00:21:29,014 (rapid rushing) 352 00:21:30,148 --> 00:21:31,550 (liquid sloshing) 353 00:21:31,550 --> 00:21:35,413 The world inside the nucleus is about to be revealed. 354 00:21:39,018 --> 00:21:42,240 We're now inside a cell in the liver. 355 00:21:42,240 --> 00:21:45,600 The spherical structure you can see is the nucleus, 356 00:21:45,600 --> 00:21:48,283 only 100th of a millimeter across. 357 00:21:49,120 --> 00:21:52,093 Packed inside here is our DNA. 358 00:21:55,975 --> 00:21:58,225 A lot of openings are visible on the surface. 359 00:22:02,187 --> 00:22:03,437 Let's take a look inside. 360 00:22:08,717 --> 00:22:11,263 This is what DNA actually looks like. 361 00:22:12,290 --> 00:22:15,790 The double helix is, in fact, shaped like this. 362 00:22:15,790 --> 00:22:18,130 Almost two meters worth of DNA 363 00:22:18,130 --> 00:22:21,380 is packed away very tightly in the nucleus, 364 00:22:21,380 --> 00:22:23,773 which is smaller than a grain of sand. 365 00:22:25,288 --> 00:22:28,121 (liquid sloshing) 366 00:22:29,297 --> 00:22:30,723 And in this clearing, right over here, 367 00:22:32,930 --> 00:22:35,220 that area highlighted in white, 368 00:22:35,220 --> 00:22:39,150 is the region of our DNA involved in making the molecules 369 00:22:39,150 --> 00:22:41,313 needed to break down caffeine. 370 00:22:42,675 --> 00:22:46,840 Here in blue, is the instruction manual, the gene, 371 00:22:46,840 --> 00:22:49,120 and the area highlighted in pink, 372 00:22:49,120 --> 00:22:52,163 is the region that used to be called junk. 373 00:22:53,530 --> 00:22:56,350 Let's take a closer look at this area, 374 00:22:56,350 --> 00:23:00,023 the non-coding 98% part of our genome. 375 00:23:04,780 --> 00:23:06,850 We're looking for the DNA that determines our ability 376 00:23:06,850 --> 00:23:08,193 to break down caffeine. 377 00:23:12,770 --> 00:23:14,050 And it's right here. 378 00:23:17,360 --> 00:23:18,603 Something's approaching it. 379 00:23:21,231 --> 00:23:23,787 (chiming) 380 00:23:23,787 --> 00:23:26,113 This molecule acts like an ignition switch. 381 00:23:29,600 --> 00:23:32,963 It's closing in on the edge of the gene shown in blue, 382 00:23:34,450 --> 00:23:37,117 (heavy rushing) 383 00:23:39,110 --> 00:23:40,423 and hits it. 384 00:23:42,945 --> 00:23:43,903 Let's take a look again. 385 00:23:45,567 --> 00:23:48,234 (heavy rushing) 386 00:23:49,120 --> 00:23:52,413 And this sets off a chain of events. 387 00:23:54,297 --> 00:23:55,870 It's like a scanner that takes in information 388 00:23:55,870 --> 00:23:57,303 from the instruction manual, 389 00:23:58,430 --> 00:24:02,143 and streaming out of it is a copy of those instructions. 390 00:24:03,100 --> 00:24:06,640 Rather than copying DNA in its entirety, 391 00:24:06,640 --> 00:24:08,990 it takes only the relevant parts of the manual, 392 00:24:10,710 --> 00:24:13,621 only those that relate to the molecule 393 00:24:13,621 --> 00:24:14,863 that breaks down caffeine. 394 00:24:16,730 --> 00:24:19,530 So once the crucial parts of the instruction manual 395 00:24:19,530 --> 00:24:20,393 have been read, 396 00:24:23,669 --> 00:24:26,336 (rapid rushing) 397 00:24:28,512 --> 00:24:31,603 the copy makes its way out of the cell nucleus. 398 00:24:35,330 --> 00:24:37,950 Tools and ingredients needed to make the necessary molecules 399 00:24:37,950 --> 00:24:41,183 for the body, are based outside the nucleus. 400 00:24:42,080 --> 00:24:44,330 (rapid clicking) 401 00:24:44,330 --> 00:24:46,030 And here comes the device 402 00:24:46,030 --> 00:24:48,330 that reads the copy of the instruction manual. 403 00:24:55,240 --> 00:24:57,210 Then it starts producing the molecule 404 00:24:57,210 --> 00:24:58,713 to break down caffeine. 405 00:25:02,205 --> 00:25:04,877 (digital droplet landing) 406 00:25:04,877 --> 00:25:06,060 And when the caffeine floats over, 407 00:25:06,060 --> 00:25:08,363 it's absorbed and broken down. 408 00:25:09,412 --> 00:25:13,569 (digital droplet landing) 409 00:25:13,569 --> 00:25:15,175 When we drink coffee, 410 00:25:15,175 --> 00:25:17,770 (motor-like puttering) 411 00:25:17,770 --> 00:25:21,173 caffeine is managed this way inside our bodies. 412 00:25:23,574 --> 00:25:28,080 (droplets and motor-like revving) 413 00:25:28,080 --> 00:25:30,920 (peaceful music) 414 00:25:30,920 --> 00:25:33,420 So let's see what happens to caffeine in people 415 00:25:33,420 --> 00:25:35,523 who are able to break it down rapidly. 416 00:25:37,580 --> 00:25:39,747 (chiming) 417 00:25:41,740 --> 00:25:43,963 The number of strikes increases. 418 00:25:45,014 --> 00:25:47,931 (digital striking) 419 00:25:49,250 --> 00:25:52,650 And as a result, molecules needed to break down caffeine 420 00:25:52,650 --> 00:25:54,250 are produced in greater numbers, 421 00:25:55,698 --> 00:25:58,248 and that's why caffeine can be broken down quickly. 422 00:26:07,090 --> 00:26:10,550 This microscopic world which stains our lives 423 00:26:10,550 --> 00:26:12,503 is astonishingly precise. 424 00:26:14,250 --> 00:26:18,518 It's actual workings are only just starting to be unveiled. 425 00:26:18,518 --> 00:26:21,268 (ethereal music) 426 00:26:34,197 --> 00:26:37,240 (water splashing) 427 00:26:37,240 --> 00:26:40,763 Our bodies are constantly up to remarkable things. 428 00:26:42,441 --> 00:26:45,108 (vibrant music) 429 00:26:46,004 --> 00:26:48,654 This system isn't set up like this just for caffeine. 430 00:26:49,690 --> 00:26:53,200 It also applies to the production of various molecules 431 00:26:53,200 --> 00:26:54,943 that are needed by our body. 432 00:26:57,320 --> 00:27:00,373 For example, to make cartilage for our noses, 433 00:27:02,320 --> 00:27:03,603 to suppress cancer, 434 00:27:05,660 --> 00:27:08,053 or to hold back allergic reactions. 435 00:27:11,111 --> 00:27:14,350 We now understand that the 98% of our genome 436 00:27:14,350 --> 00:27:16,500 is controlling the levels and timings 437 00:27:16,500 --> 00:27:18,960 for making these molecules, 438 00:27:18,960 --> 00:27:22,373 based on information kept within our genes. 439 00:27:28,049 --> 00:27:31,570 The unraveling of the 98%, the region responsible 440 00:27:31,570 --> 00:27:34,373 for individual differences and constitution, 441 00:27:35,610 --> 00:27:38,993 is starting to signal big changes in the world of medicine. 442 00:27:41,310 --> 00:27:43,907 You often come across claims such as, 443 00:27:43,907 --> 00:27:46,090 "This is good for your health," 444 00:27:46,090 --> 00:27:49,577 or, "Take so many grams of this vitamin or nutrients daily 445 00:27:49,577 --> 00:27:50,677 "to be healthy." 446 00:27:54,375 --> 00:27:55,820 Drug dosage for treating diseases 447 00:27:55,820 --> 00:27:58,593 is set according to average body type, 448 00:28:01,020 --> 00:28:03,050 but when you consider that individuals 449 00:28:03,050 --> 00:28:05,332 have different DNA types, 450 00:28:05,332 --> 00:28:07,600 (crunching) 451 00:28:07,600 --> 00:28:12,080 you begin to realize that these so-called ideal dosages, 452 00:28:12,080 --> 00:28:16,117 ought to be different for each body type. 453 00:28:16,117 --> 00:28:18,207 (digital chiming) 454 00:28:18,207 --> 00:28:20,140 And the key to each of these types 455 00:28:20,140 --> 00:28:23,853 may be found in the 98% part of our genome. 456 00:28:29,203 --> 00:28:31,370 (rushing) 457 00:28:34,262 --> 00:28:36,827 There's even more to this astonishing story, 458 00:28:37,940 --> 00:28:41,163 and it's about mankind's remarkable diversity. 459 00:28:43,919 --> 00:28:45,850 People are capable of living in altitudes 460 00:28:45,850 --> 00:28:48,063 well over 4,000 meters, 461 00:28:49,230 --> 00:28:52,743 as well as in extremely harsh conditions of the North Pole. 462 00:28:53,953 --> 00:28:56,031 (coaching sled dogs) 463 00:28:56,031 --> 00:28:57,760 We're the only mammals capable of surviving 464 00:28:57,760 --> 00:29:00,333 in such wide variety of environments. 465 00:29:02,640 --> 00:29:05,960 (chopping brush) 466 00:29:05,960 --> 00:29:08,450 Professor Rasmus Nielsen's research 467 00:29:08,450 --> 00:29:11,060 focuses on the genetic analysis of people 468 00:29:11,060 --> 00:29:12,380 from around the world, 469 00:29:12,380 --> 00:29:15,250 with remarkable physical abilities, 470 00:29:15,250 --> 00:29:18,440 and solving the mysteries around human evolution 471 00:29:18,440 --> 00:29:19,473 along the way. 472 00:29:22,379 --> 00:29:25,676 He discovered that in people who live in the Himalayas, 473 00:29:25,676 --> 00:29:27,640 4,000 meters above sea level, 474 00:29:27,640 --> 00:29:30,283 where oxygen is 40% less, 475 00:29:31,394 --> 00:29:34,110 have DNA that allows them to increase oxygen levels 476 00:29:34,110 --> 00:29:34,973 in their blood. 477 00:29:40,218 --> 00:29:42,420 And the Inuit people of the Arctic 478 00:29:42,420 --> 00:29:45,433 have developed DNA that protects their blood vessels, 479 00:29:46,270 --> 00:29:49,010 despite eating a limited, high-fat diet 480 00:29:49,010 --> 00:29:51,733 of seals and fish with few vegetables. 481 00:29:54,997 --> 00:29:56,450 The key to these resilient qualities 482 00:29:56,450 --> 00:29:59,000 is found in the regions of our genome 483 00:29:59,000 --> 00:30:01,243 that had originally been called junk. 484 00:30:03,136 --> 00:30:05,886 (peaceful music) 485 00:30:09,900 --> 00:30:11,830 Next, we're moving on to a story 486 00:30:11,830 --> 00:30:14,570 about how the 98% of our genome 487 00:30:14,570 --> 00:30:16,923 has produced astonishing abilities, 488 00:30:18,510 --> 00:30:21,333 and we've traveled to Indonesia to find out more. 489 00:30:22,514 --> 00:30:25,264 (water sloshing) 490 00:30:27,443 --> 00:30:29,554 (chattering) 491 00:30:29,554 --> 00:30:32,250 People here have lived above the ocean for generations, 492 00:30:32,250 --> 00:30:34,813 having abandoned land for centuries. 493 00:30:36,290 --> 00:30:40,763 They are sea nomads, also known as Bajau people. 494 00:30:42,712 --> 00:30:46,379 (speaking foreign language) 495 00:30:49,998 --> 00:30:50,831 They have an incredible gift 496 00:30:50,831 --> 00:30:52,713 not found anywhere else in the world, 497 00:30:54,020 --> 00:30:56,783 a superb ability to dive. 498 00:30:58,263 --> 00:31:01,096 (water splashing) 499 00:31:02,110 --> 00:31:04,853 They free dive to hunt fish in crystal clear waters, 500 00:31:06,220 --> 00:31:09,370 and they are capable of staying underwater 501 00:31:09,370 --> 00:31:11,183 for over 10 minutes. 502 00:31:12,610 --> 00:31:16,100 They can reach depths of around 70 meters, 503 00:31:16,100 --> 00:31:19,520 and as much as 60% of their working lives 504 00:31:19,520 --> 00:31:21,153 can be spent underwater. 505 00:31:24,193 --> 00:31:27,693 (water sloshing) 506 00:31:27,693 --> 00:31:30,276 (ethnic music) 507 00:31:37,448 --> 00:31:38,710 The key to their special powers 508 00:31:38,710 --> 00:31:42,903 could well be found amongst the 98% part of our genome. 509 00:31:58,108 --> 00:32:00,169 A lot of the genetic variants, that are-- 510 00:32:00,169 --> 00:32:02,130 Professor Rasmus Nielsen of UC Berkeley, 511 00:32:02,130 --> 00:32:04,087 analyzed this in detail. 512 00:32:04,087 --> 00:32:05,410 60% of the time, 513 00:32:05,410 --> 00:32:09,320 these genetic variants in the non-coding DNA 514 00:32:09,320 --> 00:32:11,670 is what has allowed the Bajau people 515 00:32:11,670 --> 00:32:14,653 to have this extreme diving capability. 516 00:32:15,641 --> 00:32:17,985 (water splashing) 517 00:32:17,985 --> 00:32:18,818 Professor Nielsen's team 518 00:32:18,818 --> 00:32:21,693 analyzed the DNA of over 40 Bajau people. 519 00:32:24,980 --> 00:32:28,270 And buried amongst the 98% of our genome, 520 00:32:28,270 --> 00:32:31,610 he uncovered DNA that was involved in making 521 00:32:31,610 --> 00:32:35,663 a particular organ of our body larger; our spleen. 522 00:32:41,020 --> 00:32:44,630 The spleen acts as a storage device for red blood cells 523 00:32:44,630 --> 00:32:45,993 which carry oxygen. 524 00:32:47,427 --> 00:32:49,690 So when our oxygen supplies are depleted, 525 00:32:49,690 --> 00:32:53,053 red blood cells are sent out around the body. 526 00:32:54,670 --> 00:32:57,963 When the Bajau peopl's spleens were measured in the field, 527 00:32:58,830 --> 00:33:00,770 and when they were compared with people 528 00:33:00,770 --> 00:33:02,033 who lived on land, 529 00:33:02,887 --> 00:33:04,660 (digital climbing) 530 00:33:04,660 --> 00:33:07,010 the Bajau spleens were on average 531 00:33:07,010 --> 00:33:08,963 one and a half times larger. 532 00:33:10,640 --> 00:33:14,723 This is caused by the mutation that makes their DNA special. 533 00:33:15,990 --> 00:33:18,657 (vibrant music) 534 00:33:20,274 --> 00:33:22,852 It's believed the Bajau ended up with bigger spleens 535 00:33:22,852 --> 00:33:27,670 because they carry DNA that's able to produce the molecules 536 00:33:27,670 --> 00:33:29,383 needed to enlarge the organ. 537 00:33:34,900 --> 00:33:37,380 The diving capabilities of the Bajau 538 00:33:37,380 --> 00:33:39,600 could have been triggered by a mutation 539 00:33:39,600 --> 00:33:43,123 that occurred unexpectedly in someone long ago. 540 00:33:44,252 --> 00:33:46,419 (chiming) 541 00:33:47,691 --> 00:33:51,210 But consider this, if the DNA that caused the spleen 542 00:33:51,210 --> 00:33:53,970 to become larger had been passed down, 543 00:33:53,970 --> 00:33:56,810 and that child never saw water, 544 00:33:56,810 --> 00:33:59,080 diving talents kept in their DNA 545 00:33:59,080 --> 00:34:02,573 would have ended up buried, like lost treasure. 546 00:34:06,480 --> 00:34:09,533 But if it became necessary to dive for their survival, 547 00:34:10,670 --> 00:34:13,692 people who carried this unique DNA 548 00:34:13,692 --> 00:34:15,310 would have had the upper hand 549 00:34:15,310 --> 00:34:17,270 and ultimately would have been able 550 00:34:17,270 --> 00:34:18,783 to produce more offspring. 551 00:34:30,542 --> 00:34:32,060 (driving) 552 00:34:32,060 --> 00:34:36,880 Our tale of remarkable people continues in Chile, 553 00:34:36,880 --> 00:34:38,463 high up in the Andes. 554 00:34:40,224 --> 00:34:43,453 One of the defining features of this region is its water. 555 00:34:45,307 --> 00:34:47,207 The water here is extremely unhealthy. 556 00:34:49,190 --> 00:34:51,920 In fact, it's toxins are up to 1,000 times 557 00:34:51,920 --> 00:34:53,793 the recommended safety levels. 558 00:34:55,714 --> 00:34:58,148 (vibrant piano music) 559 00:34:58,148 --> 00:34:59,330 Professor Bernardo Arriaza 560 00:34:59,330 --> 00:35:02,040 has studied the mummified remains of people 561 00:35:02,040 --> 00:35:05,083 who lived in this region several thousand years ago. 562 00:35:06,170 --> 00:35:09,630 He found that people lost their lives at a young age 563 00:35:09,630 --> 00:35:11,823 due to arsenic poisoning. 564 00:35:16,434 --> 00:35:20,101 (speaking foreign language) 565 00:35:37,238 --> 00:35:38,071 But people are still 566 00:35:38,071 --> 00:35:39,471 living in this region today. 567 00:35:44,927 --> 00:35:48,594 (speaking foreign language) 568 00:35:51,141 --> 00:35:54,808 (speaking foreign language) 569 00:35:59,927 --> 00:36:03,594 (speaking foreign language) 570 00:36:16,327 --> 00:36:17,840 Experts from the University of Chile 571 00:36:17,840 --> 00:36:20,683 analyzed villagers' DNA in detail. 572 00:36:23,385 --> 00:36:26,110 They discovered that buried in the non-coding 98% 573 00:36:26,110 --> 00:36:27,313 part of their genome, 574 00:36:28,929 --> 00:36:31,700 are sections of DNA that enhance the ability 575 00:36:31,700 --> 00:36:33,483 to detoxify arsenic. 576 00:36:34,885 --> 00:36:36,272 (intense music) 577 00:36:36,272 --> 00:36:37,949 (chiming) 578 00:36:37,949 --> 00:36:40,450 This was possible because their DNA allowed their bodies 579 00:36:40,450 --> 00:36:42,700 to make large amounts of enzymes 580 00:36:42,700 --> 00:36:44,873 that rendered arsenic harmless. 581 00:36:48,268 --> 00:36:49,210 In almost all of the cases 582 00:36:49,210 --> 00:36:51,670 where we looked at recent human evolution, 583 00:36:51,670 --> 00:36:54,050 what we find is that the genetic variants 584 00:36:54,050 --> 00:36:55,290 that have changed us, 585 00:36:55,290 --> 00:36:58,520 they almost always fall in the non-coding regions. 586 00:36:58,520 --> 00:37:01,960 It's almost always mutations that sit 587 00:37:01,960 --> 00:37:03,993 in the non-coding part of the DNA. 588 00:37:04,999 --> 00:37:08,220 (intense music) 589 00:37:08,220 --> 00:37:10,350 It's now thought that in most cases, 590 00:37:10,350 --> 00:37:12,830 we've managed to acquire these kids of new, 591 00:37:12,830 --> 00:37:16,710 remarkable abilities, due to mutations taking place 592 00:37:16,710 --> 00:37:19,083 in the 98% part of our genome. 593 00:37:25,458 --> 00:37:27,942 You might think this isn't relevant to you. 594 00:37:27,942 --> 00:37:31,703 You couldn't be a carrier of any special kind of DNA. 595 00:37:33,720 --> 00:37:34,713 But you'd be wrong. 596 00:37:38,612 --> 00:37:40,720 You may not be aware of this, but in fact, 597 00:37:40,720 --> 00:37:42,960 we all have the potential to contribute 598 00:37:42,960 --> 00:37:44,673 to humankind's diversity. 599 00:37:52,240 --> 00:37:55,913 You could be the source of a new ability for mankind. 600 00:37:59,410 --> 00:38:02,080 Fascinating revelations have been made in research 601 00:38:02,080 --> 00:38:04,883 taking place in Iceland, in the North Atlantic. 602 00:38:08,092 --> 00:38:10,620 A groundbreaking project has been collecting DNA samples 603 00:38:10,620 --> 00:38:13,700 from numerous people here with the aim of making 604 00:38:13,700 --> 00:38:15,333 major medical breakthroughs. 605 00:38:16,213 --> 00:38:18,630 (chattering) 606 00:38:20,155 --> 00:38:23,893 I donated around 2006, if I remember correctly. 607 00:38:24,912 --> 00:38:27,210 Yes, many people have done it, and including me, 608 00:38:27,210 --> 00:38:31,100 and I believe that this is good for the future 609 00:38:31,100 --> 00:38:33,770 generations to be able to research, 610 00:38:33,770 --> 00:38:37,912 opportunity to research the DNA. 611 00:38:37,912 --> 00:38:39,880 (woman speaking) 612 00:38:39,880 --> 00:38:42,410 Global authority on genetic research, 613 00:38:42,410 --> 00:38:46,430 Dr. Kari Stefansson has collected DNA samples 614 00:38:46,430 --> 00:38:48,883 of over half the population of Iceland. 615 00:38:53,068 --> 00:38:54,480 By analyzing the entire genomes 616 00:38:54,480 --> 00:38:57,073 of thousands of sets of parents and children, 617 00:38:58,387 --> 00:39:00,437 he discovered something truly remarkable. 618 00:39:03,989 --> 00:39:05,500 When we are conceived, 619 00:39:05,500 --> 00:39:08,910 we receive half the genome of our mother, 620 00:39:08,910 --> 00:39:11,560 half of the genome of our fathers, 621 00:39:11,560 --> 00:39:14,720 but in addition to that, we are born with 622 00:39:14,720 --> 00:39:17,580 about 17 new mutations; 623 00:39:17,580 --> 00:39:20,053 mutations that are not found in our parents. 624 00:39:21,607 --> 00:39:24,107 (eerie music) 625 00:39:24,951 --> 00:39:26,330 At the moment of fertilization, 626 00:39:26,330 --> 00:39:29,953 our father's DNA and our mother's DNA become intermingled. 627 00:39:36,531 --> 00:39:38,698 (chiming) 628 00:39:42,998 --> 00:39:45,358 (rushing) 629 00:39:45,358 --> 00:39:46,502 It's been known for some time 630 00:39:46,502 --> 00:39:48,602 that mutations were likely occurring here, 631 00:39:49,938 --> 00:39:52,690 appearance of DNA that is not present in the father 632 00:39:52,690 --> 00:39:53,523 or the mother. 633 00:39:56,819 --> 00:39:58,360 But according to this latest research, 634 00:39:58,360 --> 00:40:00,230 it's been found that everyone 635 00:40:00,230 --> 00:40:03,293 is born with around 70 new mutations, 636 00:40:04,480 --> 00:40:07,340 and most of these were found in the non-coding 637 00:40:07,340 --> 00:40:09,813 98% part of our genome. 638 00:40:11,579 --> 00:40:14,818 (vibrant choral music) 639 00:40:14,818 --> 00:40:16,540 In just over one generation, 640 00:40:16,540 --> 00:40:19,393 new abilities could emerge from these mutations, 641 00:40:20,450 --> 00:40:22,763 none of which were present in the parents. 642 00:40:26,470 --> 00:40:29,440 Non-coding DNA harbors a lot of genetic variation, 643 00:40:29,440 --> 00:40:32,840 and if you suddenly have to adapt to a new environment, 644 00:40:32,840 --> 00:40:35,020 that's where the substrate 645 00:40:35,020 --> 00:40:37,638 that natural selection can work on, 646 00:40:37,638 --> 00:40:39,263 that's where it comes from. 647 00:40:39,263 --> 00:40:40,096 Hello! 648 00:40:40,096 --> 00:40:40,929 Hi! 649 00:40:40,929 --> 00:40:41,762 Hi! With each birth, 650 00:40:41,762 --> 00:40:43,933 70 new mutations are created. 651 00:40:45,773 --> 00:40:47,790 It's essentially a system that gives us 652 00:40:47,790 --> 00:40:49,090 the best shot at survival, 653 00:40:50,071 --> 00:40:51,963 despite challenges from our environment. 654 00:40:53,032 --> 00:40:55,699 (vibrant music) 655 00:40:57,612 --> 00:41:02,210 So, new abilities might be waiting inside of you, too. 656 00:41:08,770 --> 00:41:11,320 A project has been running to find people 657 00:41:11,320 --> 00:41:14,130 with special DNA, genetic superheros 658 00:41:15,110 --> 00:41:16,453 that live amongst us. 659 00:41:19,891 --> 00:41:22,213 Professor Stephen Friend is a researcher 660 00:41:22,213 --> 00:41:23,563 based at Oxford University. 661 00:41:26,520 --> 00:41:28,680 (audience applauding) 662 00:41:28,680 --> 00:41:32,572 Decoder ring, a sort of resilience decoder ring 663 00:41:32,572 --> 00:41:33,870 that we're gonna try to build. 664 00:41:33,870 --> 00:41:35,852 He's looking for people 665 00:41:35,852 --> 00:41:37,120 who are resilient to disease, 666 00:41:37,120 --> 00:41:39,890 by searching bio-banks around the world, 667 00:41:39,890 --> 00:41:42,490 which hold tens of thousands of peoples' DNA. 668 00:41:42,490 --> 00:41:44,740 And pull 'em back a little bit by those. 669 00:41:44,740 --> 00:41:48,320 We do a lot of studying of those who are sick, 670 00:41:48,320 --> 00:41:53,320 and building up long lists of altered components 671 00:41:53,505 --> 00:41:57,104 that maybe, if what we're trying to do 672 00:41:57,104 --> 00:41:59,420 is to develop therapies for prevention, 673 00:41:59,420 --> 00:42:01,820 maybe what we should be doing is studying those 674 00:42:01,820 --> 00:42:02,883 who don't get sick. 675 00:42:06,440 --> 00:42:07,910 There have been cases 676 00:42:07,910 --> 00:42:11,840 where an individual's special disease-free DNA 677 00:42:11,840 --> 00:42:14,583 has gone on to save others around the world. 678 00:42:15,645 --> 00:42:18,062 (chattering) 679 00:42:19,188 --> 00:42:21,484 (footsteps) 680 00:42:21,484 --> 00:42:23,234 Here is one such genetic superhero. 681 00:42:24,760 --> 00:42:27,393 Paola, who is married with two children. 682 00:42:31,301 --> 00:42:32,934 Hello Paola Hello. 683 00:42:32,934 --> 00:42:35,320 (speaking foreign language) 684 00:42:35,320 --> 00:42:37,570 Paola appears completely normal, 685 00:42:39,100 --> 00:42:40,703 but her DNA is very special. 686 00:42:42,420 --> 00:42:45,263 Her superpower, resilience to diabetes. 687 00:42:48,734 --> 00:42:49,567 People with diabetes 688 00:42:49,567 --> 00:42:52,650 are unable to properly metabolize glucose, 689 00:42:52,650 --> 00:42:55,063 so their blood sugar levels remain high. 690 00:42:57,676 --> 00:42:59,493 So what could be happening in Paola's case? 691 00:43:03,190 --> 00:43:05,020 Paola's special DNA was uncovered 692 00:43:05,020 --> 00:43:07,063 by Professor Joaquim Calado. 693 00:43:10,598 --> 00:43:13,158 Once again the originality about Paola 694 00:43:13,158 --> 00:43:14,890 is that it is such a clear cut thing 695 00:43:14,890 --> 00:43:19,190 that she, in fact was losing, and still losing 696 00:43:19,190 --> 00:43:20,623 a lot of glucose. 697 00:43:22,881 --> 00:43:25,182 (chiming) 698 00:43:25,182 --> 00:43:26,560 There are molecules which enables glucose 699 00:43:26,560 --> 00:43:28,093 to be stored in our bodies. 700 00:43:30,744 --> 00:43:32,900 In the past, it had been thought that this was essential 701 00:43:32,900 --> 00:43:34,233 for storing energy. 702 00:43:38,105 --> 00:43:40,240 However, Paola's extremely rare DNA 703 00:43:40,240 --> 00:43:43,923 means that she's completely unable to make a key molecule. 704 00:43:48,025 --> 00:43:50,903 So instead, her body doesn't store excess glucose, 705 00:43:52,139 --> 00:43:53,239 and expels it quickly. 706 00:43:56,141 --> 00:43:58,990 Paola is living proof that you can live healthily 707 00:43:58,990 --> 00:44:00,793 even without these molecules. 708 00:44:04,381 --> 00:44:05,370 This is also, it is very, very, 709 00:44:05,370 --> 00:44:08,570 Paula's very, very unique in the sense that, 710 00:44:08,570 --> 00:44:12,770 okay, what can I do using the knowledge from her DNA, 711 00:44:12,770 --> 00:44:15,670 from her physiology or physiopathology. 712 00:44:15,670 --> 00:44:18,030 What can I learn from that data, 713 00:44:18,030 --> 00:44:19,853 in order to improve her condition? 714 00:44:21,900 --> 00:44:24,870 By using clues from people such as Paola, 715 00:44:24,870 --> 00:44:26,660 game-changing treatments 716 00:44:26,660 --> 00:44:28,743 have been developed by pharmaceuticals. 717 00:44:33,638 --> 00:44:34,630 This drug has now been approved 718 00:44:34,630 --> 00:44:36,793 in over 90 countries worldwide, 719 00:44:37,963 --> 00:44:40,190 and is saving countless diabetic patients 720 00:44:40,190 --> 00:44:42,593 who have been struggling with other medications. 721 00:44:43,623 --> 00:44:46,822 (chattering) 722 00:44:46,822 --> 00:44:50,489 (speaking foreign language) 723 00:44:56,110 --> 00:44:57,570 This patient has been suffering 724 00:44:57,570 --> 00:45:00,053 from diabetes for over 20 years, 725 00:45:01,218 --> 00:45:03,139 but thanks to this new drug, 726 00:45:03,139 --> 00:45:05,510 she no longer has to worry about added complications 727 00:45:05,510 --> 00:45:06,823 such as heart disease. 728 00:45:07,963 --> 00:45:11,630 (speaking foreign language) 729 00:45:12,909 --> 00:45:16,576 (speaking foreign language) 730 00:45:32,730 --> 00:45:35,810 Research being led by Professor Stephen Friend 731 00:45:35,810 --> 00:45:39,103 has unearthed even more genetic superheros. 732 00:45:42,310 --> 00:45:44,550 So on this screen, 733 00:45:44,550 --> 00:45:48,290 these are the 13, these are what we were waiting to find, 734 00:45:48,290 --> 00:45:52,336 to see, whether they were none, or several, 735 00:45:52,336 --> 00:45:53,436 and here is that list. 736 00:45:55,600 --> 00:45:57,820 Professor Friend has discovered people 737 00:45:57,820 --> 00:46:00,223 who have the genetic hallmarks of the disease, 738 00:46:01,210 --> 00:46:04,003 but are entirely healthy for some unknown reason. 739 00:46:05,580 --> 00:46:09,133 No disease, no disease, no disease. 740 00:46:10,770 --> 00:46:12,400 With genetic diseases, 741 00:46:12,400 --> 00:46:14,340 it's been thought that due to a mutation 742 00:46:14,340 --> 00:46:17,263 on single gene, disease was inevitable. 743 00:46:18,354 --> 00:46:21,631 (mild piano music) 744 00:46:21,631 --> 00:46:23,416 However, despite having the mutation 745 00:46:23,416 --> 00:46:25,340 that causes these illnesses, 746 00:46:25,340 --> 00:46:27,870 there were 13 extraordinary people 747 00:46:27,870 --> 00:46:29,563 who were completely disease-free. 748 00:46:33,245 --> 00:46:36,216 (chiming) 749 00:46:36,216 --> 00:46:37,049 It's possible that these people were born 750 00:46:37,049 --> 00:46:41,163 with remarkable DNA in the 98% part of their genome, 751 00:46:42,233 --> 00:46:43,210 which may be protecting them 752 00:46:43,210 --> 00:46:45,243 from the onset of ailments. 753 00:46:49,996 --> 00:46:53,570 These are the individuals that have those 754 00:46:53,570 --> 00:46:57,030 hidden genetic treasures. 755 00:46:57,030 --> 00:46:58,003 How exciting! 756 00:47:01,136 --> 00:47:06,067 And one of them was around individuals who had HIV 757 00:47:06,067 --> 00:47:08,063 and did not go on to get AIDS. 758 00:47:10,175 --> 00:47:11,663 These individuals had no idea, no idea, 759 00:47:12,910 --> 00:47:14,203 that they were special. 760 00:47:17,274 --> 00:47:21,163 There may be these unrecognized genetic superheros, 761 00:47:22,150 --> 00:47:23,273 and I wanna find them. 762 00:47:25,000 --> 00:47:26,350 We need you. 763 00:47:26,350 --> 00:47:29,370 We need you to step up, because in you 764 00:47:29,370 --> 00:47:32,453 are those hidden treasures that could help humanity. 765 00:47:37,116 --> 00:47:38,730 The hunt for treasures in our DNA 766 00:47:38,730 --> 00:47:41,013 is taking place all over the globe. 767 00:47:45,390 --> 00:47:49,350 Priceless information with the power to change our futures 768 00:47:49,350 --> 00:47:52,420 is being uncovered from regions of our genome 769 00:47:52,420 --> 00:47:54,873 that had once been called junk. 770 00:47:58,513 --> 00:48:00,214 And cutting edge science 771 00:48:00,214 --> 00:48:01,964 is unveiling the world of genetics. 772 00:48:03,480 --> 00:48:07,270 Our genomes 98% contains humankind's 773 00:48:07,270 --> 00:48:09,613 limitless capacity for diversity. 774 00:48:10,796 --> 00:48:14,046 (vibrant choral music) 775 00:48:20,650 --> 00:48:24,163 And even conceals powers that could save peoples' lives. 776 00:48:29,690 --> 00:48:33,053 And many more treasures are still waiting to be found. 777 00:48:38,570 --> 00:48:41,760 You too, may have such undiscovered treasures 778 00:48:41,760 --> 00:48:43,363 within your DNA.